A Funny Thing Happened at the Apple Store Today

We stopped into the Apple Store in the Domain in Austin to get an iPhone case. Our son immediately ran to the kids table to get some gaming in while my wife and I looked at iPhone cases.

After a few minutes, someone came out from the back and made an announcement: one of their colleagues at the store was moving on to another company, and this was his last day at work at the Apple Store. “I’d like everyone to please join us in congratulating him and clapping him out!”

It was followed by what amounts to a standing ovation from guests, customers, and Apple employees. He shook hands, high-fived, and hugged his way out of store.

What I love about it is that they celebrated his tenure at the store and his next opportunity, and he was clearly well-liked by his co-workers.

This is the second time I’ve happened upon this ritual at the Apple Store. This is how companies should handle someone leaving when they move on, whenever possible. Celebrate their tenure, celebrate their contribution, celebrate their opportunity, and let them know that they are loved.